UditVani, Jamshedpur: Jamshedpur FC secured a vital 1-0 win over Kerala Blasters FC in their historic 150th Indian Super League (ISL) match, thanks to a decisive header from Pratik Chaudhari in the 61st minute. This victory lifted the Men of Steel to fourth place on the ISL table, providing a strong finish to their year at the JRD Tata Sports Complex.
Early Challenges and Close Calls
The match began with Kerala Blasters FC taking control of the tempo, aggressively pressing Jamshedpur in the opening stages. However, Jamshedpur FC weathered the early storm and regained their footing as the first half progressed.
In the 8th minute, Jamshedpur came close to scoring when Rei Tachikawa’s header, following a pinpoint cross from Imran Khan, was saved by Kerala’s goalkeeper. Just before the half-hour mark, Javi Hernández had a chance to score after pouncing on a loose ball from Kerala’s keeper, but his shot was deflected off a defender. Shortly after, Hernández was set up again by Jordan Murray, but the Kerala defense managed to thwart the attack.
In the 34th minute, Mohammed Sanan had a golden opportunity after a long cross from the right, but his miscontact left the ball going wide.
Jamshedpur’s Growing Dominance
As the first half wore on, Jamshedpur began to dominate possession and created several attacking opportunities. Kerala Blasters struggled to regain their rhythm under the constant pressure. In the 40th minute, Tachikawa had another header attempt from the center of the box, but it went high and wide, leaving the score level at halftime.
Chaudhari’s Decisive Header
The breakthrough came early in the second half. In the 61st minute, Stephen Eze delivered a precise pass to Pratik Chaudhari, who calmly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner of the net, giving Jamshedpur a crucial 1-0 lead. The goal energized the home crowd and shifted the balance of the match in Jamshedpur’s favor.
Missed Opportunities and Solid Defense
Towards the end, S Doungel came close to doubling the lead with two long-range shots, both of which narrowly missed the target. Despite Kerala Blasters’ attempts to equalize, Jamshedpur’s defense held firm, ensuring a clean sheet and the three points.
Looking Ahead
Jamshedpur FC will look to continue their winning momentum as they prepare to face Bengaluru FC in their next home match on January 4 at the JRD Tata Sports Complex.
उदित वाणी 
टेलीग्राम पर भी उपलब्ध है। यहां क्लिक करके आप सब्सक्राइब कर सकते हैं।